In October of 2016 my Mom and I set out on a trip through the southwest to celebrate her successful completion of breast cancer treatment. It was truly awe-inspiring and I cherish the time we spent together. I look forward to reflecting, writing, and sharing some of those experiences in the months ahead.

My Dad was able to join us for the first leg of the trip while we visited my Uncle Tom (his brother) and Aunt Pollyanna in El Paso. I had never been to the southwest before (save for a featherbrained trip to Vegas). I was immediately and profoundly moved by the sheer size and openness of the landscape, the dryness of the air, and the wildlife determined to survive in the harsh climate. It was easy to understand and share Uncle Tom’s love of hiking.

On Saturday we set off to the Franklin Mountains State Park. The rocky range splits the northern side of El Paso into a Y with foot trails tracing its ridges and valleys. It was a beautiful and fun hike, and I treasure the memory of time spent with my Dad and Uncle Tom.